Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Hey Beautiful People!

I hope you're all well.

As you all know Mother's Day is coming up on the 31st March (for the UK) as I know the rest of the world celebrates on another day.

As a mother myself now, I know every day is special for a mother and her child and everyday should be celebrated as Mother's Day however seeing as the occasion is here now, why not take up the excuse to buy your amazing mother a beautiful gift or gifts!?

Which is why I have put together this post for some Gift Ideas I personally love and adore and thought would be super cute for you guys to get for your Mum's !

DISCLAIMER: I have not been paid nor sponsored to do this post and share ideas - Nor am I gaining any profit from this - Just something I chose to share. 
All of the companies can be found on Instagram.

1) Pamper with Good Skin Care Products (@MillionaireBeautyUK)
www.millionairebeauty.co.uk 

Those of you who are constant and up to date with my social media - You must know all about my love for the brand. It's one of the only brands I've actually tried and tried and seen results and loved. 
Yes I've constantly heard that they are expensive but if you are buying good high end products which will benefit you and your skin it is definitely worth it. 
If you can go into MAC and pay £30 for a foundation, I'm sure you can pay the same for skincare and see vast results and NOT even need foundation ;)
Plus your mother is worth it !

The 5 minute wake me up is actually one of my favourites and is currently 10% off too at the moment and would be an amazing product or you could check out their bundle packages. The following skin brightening one is another favourite..

2) Pampering Session - @BinsinaLaserClinic
https://www.binsinalaserclinic.com

If you wish to just take your mum out for the day; why not book in for a pampering session at Binsina Laser Clinic. 
I have had facials here, laser hair removal here and my IV energy boosting injections too and feel like a brand new woman! 
There are so many treatments and options for you guys to choose from that I'm sure your mum would absolutely love - And the results are great! 

Why not book in for a hydra facial so she can feel like her skin is all fresh and rejuvenated after all the handwork she endures for you and the family?

I am sure they will take extra good care of you - If not then tell them you heard about them through Ezzakins <3

3) The Ultimate Blessed Gift (@UniqueBoutiqueGifts)

I cannot tell you how much I love this gift idea - I instantly ordered one for myself, Hubsy and Eiliyah when I saw it.. It is just so beautiful and so sweet - Imagine gifting your mother a personalised prayer mat where she can bow down and just make prayer for you!
That basically sums it up - That's how beautiful it is and that's how much I love it !!

4) Take her out for a yummy coffee in one of the pretty cafe's around London.
(@elancafe, @saintamyes @feyacafe)

I have named a few above that are super cute with their decoration, and they have good food and hot drinks - Just a change and something pretty at the same time.

Elan Cafe

You could possibly take some cute pictures together whilst you're there and just create memories for yourself and your album <3

Feya Cafe

Saint Amyes

5) Desi Afternoon Tea (@Chaiiwala)
If your mum's aren't into the normal hot drinks, and would prefer their Desi hot drinks and snacks - Then make sure you take them out to Chaiiwala (they have various branches all over the UK) and the yummiest snacks ever.
It's a great alternative if you just prefer good tea with delicious snacks in a less hustle and bustle atmosphere. 
You have to try their masala chips! They also do great desi breakfast!!!

6) Time is Precious (@DanielWellington)
www.danielwellington.com

Although I have worked with Daniel Wellington various times; I can highly recommend their watches as I'm not normally a watch person yet their watches are the ONLY ones I wear and would gift somebody else because of the classy style and range of options - Plus you'll always get a great offer and deal throughout the year. 

I also have a discount code for you guys which is 15% off the ENTIRE website - EZZA15
(Once again I do not get commission from any of the sales made).

7) Halal Gift Options (@mubaraklondon)
www.mubaraklondon.com

If you want a more wider range of gifts with lots of options including halal options then Mubarak London have the cutest little gifts. I am still using their Salaam Gorgeous and Salaam Handsome mugs since I got married. 

They have chocolates, hampers and even Islamic gifts (so definitely worth checking out)

Mubarak London

8) Delicious meal in a fancy restaurant (@TheBanc)

You guys know how much of a Banc fan I am!

I absolutely love and adore their food and the options they have.

You can simply not go wrong as their food is absolutely delicious and they have the best quality and options. Service is also always amazing.
If you guys need some recommendations; you should know by now my absolute favourite is the BBQ chicken melt steak with Mac n Cheese and a Strawberry Mojito.

Lastly..

If you are younger and aren't working, then just remember that gifts aren't the most important thing especially to your mother. You could simply make her a card, or buy her a box of chocolates and she will be happy.
You could also just help out in the house by even cleaning your room and that will make her so happy. Mothers are constantly working and doing so much for us, so any form of admiration and appreciation is special.

Lots of love !!

All Things Holiday ft Eden Andalou

Once again it's taken me months to write up a blog post! (And as always no excuses really, well I shouldn't have anyway!)

So this post is just for you guys because I get so many questions about our holidays and travel, so thought I would do one with all your questions here, and if you guys happen to have anymore questions.. I will do a part 2..

So those of you who follow me on Instagram are aware that I just came back from a family holiday to Morocco, so I'll be sharing some pictures from the trip here whilst answering some of the most common questions (which may not be related to the trip but other trips!)

What resort did you stay at in Marrakech?

So we stayed in a resort called Eden Andalou which was a 5 star hotel with a Spa and a Aqua park. I actually enjoyed our stay there, and was the ONLY part of Marrakech I actually liked and enjoyed otherwise Marrakech probably isn't for me =(

Best holiday spot and why?

Out of all the places we have travelled to and visited; for me it has to be Maldives - It was my favourite holiday spot - However on a more practical note, it will have to be Dubai. I've been 4 times in the past 2 years and I still have a massive checklist to tick off. I feel like you cannot get bored in Dubai, theres always something to do and it caters for all ages.

Your number one place you want to visit?

Well it was Maldives, and Santorini but Alhamdullilah ticked both off my list. The next 2 places I wish to go to are either to Saudi to perform pilgrimage or if it's a family holiday then to Turkey as I haven't been yet!!

Who plans the destinations and hotels you visit?

So me and Hubsy both LOVE to travel, and in a marriage you're equal so we both plan holidays and surprise one another. Sometimes I arrange and book and sometimes he does, because I feel as equals you should both make one another feel special and conquer the world together as a team.

What do you pack for a baby for holiday?

Depending on the age of your baby, lots of nappies, wipes, clothes, milk (if using formula), pram, baby carrier, bath essentials, thermometer, entertainment for the flight if they're older.. Basically EVERYTHING that you use on a day to day basis unless you are travelling to a destination where you can easily get stuff then travel light. 

Most importantly don't forget your baby !! LOL

How is it flying with a baby?

Again depends on the age, as we have travelled at different months with her it's been a different experience every single time. Our recent trip to Morocco was okay-ish because it wasn't that long of a flight and we just had to keep her entertained. 

I don't give her much phone time but places like on a flight you're gonna need it.

Once they are more alert, you will need all things entertainment and hopefully a nap.

I wouldn't advise flying alone if your baby is as fidgety as mine and its a longer flight, all the help is always needed. But if you can manage HI5!

Do you recommend Marrakech for family or children?

See for me this was my second time in Marrakech (once before marriage, and once as a family) and both times it's just not done it for me except the resort. 

The resort was absolutely amazing for family as it's kid friendly. You have swimming pools, an aqua park, a little area for children's rides, an inclusive option and open space to enjoy.. You cannot go wrong!!

But I guess you can go anywhere as long as you're in a good resort, so choose wisely, otherwise a normal hotel may not be your ideal pick for Marrakech if travelling with young children.

If your kids are happy and enjoying, then you will instantly enjoy yourself and be happy.

Your opinion on travelling with children?

This is probably one of the best questions. 

See if you asked me this before I got married, I would have had a different approach because until you don't have children or aren't experienced in a certain aspect you cannot really form an opinion until you go through it yourself.

I personally do not think there is anything wrong with having a break and getting away (of course depending on circumstances, duration of stay and reason)

Of course, don't just go away every month for like a week or two. Once in a while for a couple days should be okay - I mean everyone deserves a break.

I know people think why have kids if you can't look after them, but there are some parents out there who have no help and are constantly just looking after their children. 

A happy mother is the best mother for her child, as long as she's refreshed and recharged. 

An unhealthy, tired and cranky mother is never good to her child.

But that's my outlook, of course you're all entitled to your own opinion and beliefs. 

But I enjoy every family holiday with Eiliyah despite how hectic it can get.

How do you plan outfits for your holidays? Your outfits always look so matched to the destination.

This made my day because I honestly don't feel that's the case at all.

I always take advantage of going away to get some cute shots - The first thing is knowing what the weather will be like at the destination so you know whether to get out cute modest dresses or a warm coat with matching boots.

Once I've got the weather noted, I will think of a theme to go with the theme of the destination (i.e: beach, city etc) and then I just try take pictures and sometimes I get lucky, and sometimes unlucky. The rest is just editing to be honest. Editing can make the most basic picture look picture perfect =P

Your flight essentials?

A long lasting moisturiser for dry skin, a travel size deodorant or perfume, lip balm, a good mascara to make me look awake, headphones, and lots of SNACKS!

Welcome To Motherhood - Q&A!

Hey Beauts!!

Yes I know this Q&A is long overdue. I was supposed to film it but let's face it a routine is completely messed up with a newborn in the house. I am lucky that I am even able to type out this post. 

As I am writing this, the little madam is making little crying sounds to get my attention, which is why if there are any mistakes please bear with me *Haha*

Firstly let me begin by saying why does nobody tell you about motherhood? 

You're informed all about pregnancy and birth. You even have antenatal classes which are great, but nobody gives you an insight to reality and about how life is after??

It's like the minute you have a baby, you're left in the dark in an isolated room LOL (But it's actually a blessing once you get the hang of it and when your baby does the cutest little things. 

Seeing half of you and half of your other half is such a beautiful feeling!!!

Rabia asks: "How was labour?"

This is one question I always get asked; and all I like to say is everyone has a different experience and nobody has the same experience. The reason I say that is because I had the worst possible labour ever, which took me forever to recover from. I was in labour for 3 days so we will leave it at that, as the details aren't very pretty! 

Pandora asks: "How did your husband handle your labour? Was he freaking out or faint?

If I tell you guys what my husband did, you'd probably beat him with a shoe LOL! Just Kidding. 

My husband was very supportive, I had him and my mum with me for all those days, and we didn't want anyone to know as I already had a high risk pregnancy.

As I was in labour for 3 days he was also exhausted, and towards the end he fell asleep and would NOT wake up! I tried, my mum tried and so did the midwife *Haha* I even resorted to going on Youtube and playing a newborn sound to wake him up - Yes whilst I was in labour loooool, but Alhamdullilah he woke up before she arrived, and the moment he held her he looked like a changed man!

Raheem's Mommy asks: "Do you strongly believe a girl should have NO visitors only immediate family as lots of people like to bombard a new mum and newborn in Asian culture?"

I am actually SO glad that somebody asked this question because I also strongly believe in this.

I absolutely hate it when people don't consider the new mum and newborn, and just think that they have to come and see the baby. 

It's actually weird because in Asian culture theres a thing called the 40 days which is apparently supposed to be for the mother and child to rest, heal and bond. But how are they supposed to do any of those things with constant visitors.

My nani (nan) wanted me to sit and do the 40 days so I stayed home and did what she wanted for about 2 weeks just for her happiness sake, but couldn’t do it to the extent she wanted especially as I had to go to midwife appointments and see the health visitor etc. Sometimes you have to compromise and do things for your loved ones and of course they mean well.

My family in particular always go visit a mother and newborn who do the 40 day thing after the 40 days so that this time can be for the mother and child to bond and also heal. 

Your life is completely changed and you need this time to adjust and slowly get into a routine.

Hopefully the new generation will understand this and bring a change.

Tayyibah asks: "What does it feel like being a mother?"

 It feels surreal. A feeling you can't really describe to be honest. It is a beautiful feeling that comes with a lot of responsibility but every moment is a learning curve and a lovely feeling. The best feeling is seeing them smile and knowing you are the reason!!

Baraka Boutique asks: "How do you manage to get any rest after baby?"

You don't! And I wish somebody told me beforehand LOL. Especially if you're someone like me who loves their sleep. But the only way you can manage is support. Whether it's parents, your spouse, siblings, family or friends. Take any help you can because sleep deprivation is REAL. And I don't think people realise how serious it is, because if you aren't getting enough sleep then how can you look after a baby. 

But I've only managed this far because of my mum and my husband. They allow me to get rest whenever I can but if I hear Eiliyah cry, I'm up in a second, so they think its pointless to give me time to sleep loooool. But I wouldn't have been able to do anything without them.

Madihah asks: "What's the hardest thing about being a Mum?"

The hardest thing is juggling time for yourself as your baby takes up all your time, and any time you do get to yourself you just want to sleep because of the lack of sleep.

Aleena asks: "What's married life like after a baby?"

Having a baby has a huge effect on your marriage. It just depends whether you let it become a positive change or a negative one. There will obviously be a change because to your marriage as there is a third person in your life and that life needs you and your partner both as he/she isn't able to fend for themselves. It means no more date nights, and no more chilling or doing things spontaneously. But if you're ready for the change then its the most beautiful thing seeing a little human in your home who is half you and half your loved one. 

We still get to spend time and go on as normal as possible thanks to support from my family.

Pandora asks: "What were your initial birth plans and did it go to plan?"

So I made a birth plan well in advance, and NO unfortunately it didn't go to plan.

Not just one thing, but literally EVERY single bullet point I made. It all went out the window due to my high risk pregnancy.

I wished to have a water birth but you can't if your pregnancy is at high risk.

Salz asks: "Do you plan to show your baby's face?"

At the moment I'm not planning to due to her protection which was a joint decision made by me and my husband both. But maybe all in good time, when she's a little older. She's still quite small so not as yet but maybe soon..

Anum asks: "Being a young British Muslim mum what one teaching will you give you daughter to live by?"

I'll raise her to be a good Muslim to the best of my ability alongside my husband but I will teach her to be a good person before anything, and teach her to see the good in others, and not based on their colour, culture, race, shape or size.

Maya asks: "Who named Eiliyah?"

I gave my husband a handful of names that I liked. They all began with E as we decided if it was a girl her name would begin with E, and if it was a boy then M.

So out of all the names he liked Eiliyah because of the meaning.

Humaira asks: "Was baby's growth okay during pregnancy?"

Alhamdullilah her growth was amazing during pregnancy. 

I took vitamins everyday, stopped my fizzy drinks, tea, coffee and junk food completely.

Samiya asks: "Initial reaction when you saw your baby?"

I cried.. And I'm not ashamed. I think after being in labour for so long, I just wanted it over and done with. Just wanted to hold her. I remember as soon as she came out I kept saying 'Alhamdullilah.. Thank you Allah' over and over again, even after they put her on my chest for skin to skin.

Tayyibah asks: "What does Eiliyah mean?"

The beautiful one to grow in love and peace with God.

Asma asks: "Formula or Breastfeeding?"

Breastfeeding

HOW DID YOU LOSE WEIGHT!?

So this question is the one that everyone keeps asking, so I thought I would leave it till last.

So I haven't lost all of it yet, or as much as I'd like but the reason I went back to normal was because I didn't put on too much weight. I put on the required amount during pregnancy as I took care of my diet and exercising. I made sure I stopped my caffeine completely. So no fizzy drinks at all, no tea or coffee. Just water, milk and juices.

I also didn't have too much junk or the fatty foods you're told to eat in Asian families. 

Even now I am trying my best to eat healthy and not binge too much. 

I drink as much water as possible even now.

If you guys do have anymore questions, I will do another Q&A soon and answer your questions.

Thanks for reading guys and keep up to date with me on Instagram! x

Pregnancy Q&A with Hubsy

You guys had tonnes of questions; so we thought we would pick the most common ones and summarise everything into a video - Apologies for it being a little long.

But whilst I am sat here writing up a little post on my blog; I just wanted to say a huge thank you again to each and every single one of you for the messages, endless love, and countless prayers and support - You guys have literally become like family; and have shown more support than some people I know in real life. I love you guys!!

Wishing and praying for each and every one of you too :)

Cooking Chicken Karahi with Daddy | Recipe

Hey gorgeous people.

Firstly thank you if you came here after watching the video on my Youtube channel for the full ingredients to the Chicken Karahi me and Daddy made. 
And if you just visited the blog in general; well then also a huge thank you.

It was so much fun doing something different; and filming with my Dad for once. 
I never actually thought I would ever be able to get him to make an appearance on my channel, but I guess never say never. 

Anyways; before I start blabbing on as always, here is a list of all the ingredients we used for the Chicken Karahi (In Order):

• 4 Tablespoons of Vegetable Oil or Olive Oil
• 2 Whole Finely Cut Onions
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• Quarter to Half Teaspoon of Red Chilli Powder (Can add more; depends on how spicy you like your food. We eat quite mild, so quarter is usually enough for us)
• Half Teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• 1 Whole Chicken
• 1 Frozen Ginger
• 1 Frozen Garlic
• 1 Frozen Chilli
• Half Can of Chopped Tomatoes
• 4 Tablespoons of Yoghurt
• 1 Teaspoon of Coriander Powder
• Fresh Cut Ginger towards end and also for garnishing
• Fresh Coriander Leaves

Guide to Santorini | #EzzakinsTravels

Another post after a very long time..

I am probably the most inconsistent "blogger" to exist so I am terribly sorry! *holds head in shame*
Even this post was supposed to be out ages ago but as always life takes its toll and I am once again left writing this slightly later than expected; but nonetheless I am making sure it is done as I have lost count in regards to how many of you asked me about my Santorini trip.

Where did you stay?
Was it worth the money?
Was there Halal food available etc?

So I'm going to tackle all of those questions whilst sharing a few images too (pictures do NOT do Santorini justice) and a mini vlog of our trip will also be available on my Youtube Channel so stay tuned for that!!

Every morning breakfast view from our Room.

So let's start of with why I chose Santorini to surprise my husband with for our anniversary!?

Firstly because it is a wife's duty to also plan surprises for her husband and spoil him and treat him as well. We both wanted to visit Santorini as it was on our list of places to visit plus we wanted to go somewhere we haven't been before otherwise I am sure Dubai and Maldives would have been chosen again!

The weather in July/August is also perfect so we thought why not.

Our trip was fairly a short one but it was enough for a little break away.

So starting off with how expensive Santorini is; well let me just tell you that you will need to save up a little bit in order to stay in a nice hotel and have a good experience.

My best advice to all of you which I also did myself was to book a holiday for a shorter amount of time but upgrade your room to one with a better view and a nicer room.

The reason everything is expensive is because people who have their own businesses and companies have to pay 56% tax which makes sense to extract it from tourists haha.

Sunset from our Hotel Room

Anyway moving on to the most important part - The main reason I did this blog post for you guys was - Which hotel did you stay at?

So I booked through Kuoni who gave me a list of their recommended hotels, and I opted for Gold Suites which is based in Imervogli. (It is very high up with a view of the city of Oia and the Calderas)

To be honest what else do you need a view of when you are in Santorini!?

So the hotel was a really cute little luxurious hotel. It basically had all the elements of Santorini which are perfect for a short break away. The best part of the hotel are the rooms as the view is breathtaking and honestly pictures do not do it justice. You can book a room with a swimming pool or a heated jacuzzi to your preference too however only problem is that not all the rooms are private so you may have to ask them for a private room at a higher level so you have privacy if thats what you are looking for!

In regards to Halal food - There was only ONE halal restaurant on the island of Imervogli/Thira which was an Indian Restaurant called Jaipur Palace that only have halal chicken available on request so you'd have to phone them up beforehand just to ensure that they have it. The food was good and quite fairly priced for a touristy area. 

If you are a meat eater and want Halal food then maybe the island isn't the best place unless you are okay to have vegetarian food or seafood. 

I am personally okay with vegetarian but not a seafood fan at all - But it still worked out okay as me and hubsy always travel with lots of snacks when we travel. Our suitcases are filled with food more than clothes haha.

In regards with things to do - There is quite a bit to do as you have a city centre with shops and lots of souvenir stores. You have beaches and cathedrals to visit! We went for a cruise on a boat which served dinner, a quick swim in the Mediterranean sea, and stops at all the beautiful little islands and landmarks etc.

Overall Santorini is beautiful and a must do experience. Pictures and videos just do not do it justice. 

**** 4/5 stars from me only because of the food let down!

Get Rid Of Acne & Acne Scars (Updated)

Hi beauties! And guys if any are reading..

QUICK DISCLAIMER: Please test the products on a small area of your skin before using it in case it does not suit your skin. This is highly unlikely but precautions have to be taken. 

What works for others may not always work for you. You know your skin better than anyone, and it's always best to consult a doctor before. 

So I put up a video on my Youtube channel about how to get rid of acne and acne scars, so I thought I would share a written post about it so you guys can get a more detailed approach as it's hit 110,000+ views and counting.

As you guys may have seen in the video, I had a sudden and very random breakout of acne all over my face which left severe scarring (and I also had a chemical burn due to products being used).
I tried several medication, and several remedies that people recommended but nothing worked for me and it was getting a bit too much to handle.

I used two products listed below which you can read on further about how I used or watch the video towards the bottom of this post.

TEA TREE OIL: CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE TEA TREE OIL I USE.

BIO OIL: CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE BIO OIL.

Now what worked for me may not necessarily work for you as we are all different, however whoever I have recommended this too, has worked (for both the acne pimples and the scarring stage).

After all those products, I tried Tea Tree Oil which I applied for 2-3 days just before going to bed and after those 3 days my acne pimples were completely gone.
It may seem too good to be true but it actually worked - And it is probably because tea tree oil is actually an anti-septic hence clearing all the bacteria. 
A few things to be clear of is DO NOT use tea tree oil on regular pimples or on any other part where you don't have the acne pimples as this may cause some redness on the skin.
Also during the duration of using tea tree oil I didn't moisturize my skin with any creams or products except for a few dabs on the skin where I was really dry (but only during the day)

When applying the tea tree oil, I only dabbed the oil on each individual spot and not over the whole face.

After the pimples had gone, and I was left with the scarring - I stopped using the tea tree oil, and turned to using Bio Oil. 
Now I am truly obsessed with Bio Oil because it is a multi-purpose product and aims to treat for so many things. One of the things it aims to do is get rid of scarring, so I used this all over my face and applied it for a month and all my scars were completely gone. They did initially start fading after a week or two, but for the best results it did take about a month. 
I was so happy with everything it did for my skin, that I use it regularly now as a skin care routine for dehydrated skin and to even out my skin tone and complexion.

To get the best results from Bio Oil, apply twice a day, however I only used it before bed and applied it in circular motions, really allowing it to penetrate into my skin.

I really do hope that this method works for you, and you get rid of your acne pimples and/or acne scarring. But don't ever forget, no matter what happens you are all beautiful in your own unique way!